20 Festive Christmas Drink Recipes Alcoholic Delights

Get ready to jingle all the way to the bar with our 20 Festive Christmas Drink Recipes: Alcoholic Delights! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just cozying up by the fire, these spirited concoctions are sure to spread cheer. From creamy eggnog to sparkling cocktails, we’ve mixed up something for every taste. So, grab your shaker and let’s make this holiday season merrier, one sip at a time!

Classic Eggnog with Bourbon

Kick off the holiday season with a timeless beverage that warms the soul and delights the palate. Classic Eggnog with Bourbon is a rich, creamy concoction that combines the smoothness of dairy with the boldness of bourbon, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

• 6 pasture-raised eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup dark rum

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten pasture-raised eggs and granulated sugar. Whisk vigorously for 3 minutes until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
2. Add the freshly grated nutmeg and pure vanilla extract to the egg mixture, whisking to incorporate fully.
3. In a separate bowl, gently whisk together the heavy cream and whole milk until just combined. Tip: Avoid over-whipping to maintain the beverage’s creamy texture.
4. Slowly pour the cream and milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth blend.
5. Stir in the bourbon and dark rum, mixing gently to combine. Tip: For a stronger bourbon flavor, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes before serving.
6. Chill the eggnog in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
7. Before serving, give the eggnog a quick stir and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.

Zesty and rich, this Classic Eggnog with Bourbon boasts a velvety texture and a complex flavor profile that deepens with time. Serve it in chilled glasses with a cinnamon stick for an elegant touch, or alongside spiced cookies for a festive pairing.

Spiked Hot Chocolate

On a chilly evening, nothing warms the soul quite like a cup of Spiked Hot Chocolate. This indulgent beverage combines rich cocoa with a hint of your favorite spirit for a comforting yet sophisticated treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp high-quality cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 oz bourbon or dark rum
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
• Whipped cream, for garnish
• Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Whisk in cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and fine sea salt until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and add dark chocolate chips, stirring continuously until melted and incorporated, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract and bourbon or dark rum.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish.

Silky and rich, this Spiked Hot Chocolate boasts a deep chocolate flavor with a warming alcohol kick. Serve it in festive mugs with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra touch of elegance.

Cranberry Mimosas

Just as the seasons change, so do our cravings for refreshing beverages that capture the essence of the moment. Cranberry Mimosas offer a delightful twist on the classic brunch cocktail, blending tart cranberry juice with the effervescence of champagne for a drink that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, strained
• 1/2 cup 100% pure cranberry juice, unsweetened
• 1 bottle (750 ml) brut champagne or dry sparkling wine, chilled
• 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, for garnish
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill four champagne flutes in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to ensure they are cold before serving.
2. Pour 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice into each chilled flute, ensuring the juice is evenly distributed among the glasses.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of pure cranberry juice to each flute, gently layering it over the orange juice to create a gradient effect.
4. Slowly top each flute with brut champagne, filling to about 1/2 inch from the rim to allow room for garnishes.
5. Drop 3-4 fresh cranberries into each flute for a festive touch and to enhance the cranberry flavor.
6. Garnish each mimosa with a small sprig of fresh rosemary, lightly rubbing the leaves between your fingers before adding to release its aromatic oils.

The Cranberry Mimosa presents a beautiful layering of flavors, from the sweet and tangy orange juice at the base to the crisp, dry finish of the champagne. Serve these at your next brunch with a side of orange-cranberry scones to complement the drink’s vibrant flavors.

Peppermint Patty Cocktail

Gather around as we dive into the refreshing world of cocktails with a twist, the Peppermint Patty Cocktail. This delightful drink combines the coolness of peppermint with the rich depth of chocolate, creating a perfect balance for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 oz high-quality vodka
• 1 oz white crème de cacao
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed ice
• Dark chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, white crème de cacao, and peppermint schnapps.
2. Add the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with 1 cup of crushed ice.
4. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, ensuring a smooth pour.
6. Garnish the cocktail with dark chocolate shavings, sprinkling them lightly over the top for a decorative finish.

Vibrant in flavor, this Peppermint Patty Cocktail offers a creamy texture with a minty freshness that’s perfectly complemented by the subtle bitterness of dark chocolate. Serve it in a sugar-rimmed glass for an extra touch of sweetness or alongside a small piece of dark chocolate to enhance the tasting experience.

Gingerbread Martini

Now, let’s embark on crafting a Gingerbread Martini, a festive cocktail that marries the warmth of gingerbread with the sophistication of a martini. This guide will walk you through each step with precision, ensuring a delightful result.

Ingredients

• 2 oz premium vodka
• 1 oz gingerbread syrup (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1/2 oz vanilla extract
• Ice cubes
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill a martini glass by filling it with ice water and setting it aside for at least 5 minutes.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz premium vodka, 1 oz gingerbread syrup, 1 oz heavy cream, and 1/2 oz vanilla extract.
3. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes, ensuring the ingredients are well-chilled.
4. Securely fasten the shaker’s lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
5. Discard the ice water from the martini glass and strain the shaken mixture into the glass, ensuring a smooth pour.
6. Lightly sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top of the drink for a fragrant garnish.

This Gingerbread Martini boasts a velvety texture with a harmonious blend of spicy and sweet flavors. For an extra festive touch, rim the glass with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon before pouring.

White Christmas Margarita

Sometimes, the holiday season calls for a twist on classic cocktails, and this White Christmas Margarita is just the festive upgrade you need. Start by gathering your ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Ingredients

• 2 oz premium silver tequila
• 1 oz triple sec
• 1 oz fresh lime juice, strained
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 cup ice cubes
• Coarse salt, for rimming
• Lime wedge, for garnish
• Fresh cranberries, for garnish

Instructions

1. Begin by rimming a chilled margarita glass with coarse salt. To do this, rub the rim with a lime wedge, then dip it into a shallow plate of salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the silver tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, coconut cream, and simple syrup. Tip: For a smoother texture, ensure the coconut cream is well stirred before measuring.
3. Add the ice cubes to the shaker, securing the lid tightly. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels frosty. Tip: This chilling method ensures the perfect dilution and temperature for your margarita.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice, if desired. Tip: For an extra festive touch, use ice cubes with frozen cranberries inside.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and a skewer of fresh cranberries on the rim of the glass.

Delight in the creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of this White Christmas Margarita, where the coconut cream adds a luxurious texture. Serve it as a standout drink at your holiday gatherings, or enjoy it as a special treat to usher in the season’s cheer.

Apple Cider Sangria

On a crisp autumn evening, nothing warms the soul quite like a glass of Apple Cider Sangria. This delightful twist on the classic sangria combines the rich flavors of apple cider with the boldness of red wine, creating a perfectly balanced beverage that’s both refreshing and comforting.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup sparkling water, chilled

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine the dry red wine, fresh apple cider, brandy, and maple syrup. Stir gently to mix.
2. Add the thinly sliced apple, orange, and cinnamon stick to the pitcher. Stir again to ensure the fruit is well incorporated.
3. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: The longer it sits, the more pronounced the flavors become.
4. Just before serving, add the chilled sparkling water to the pitcher and stir lightly. Tip: Adding the sparkling water at the last moment preserves its effervescence.
5. Serve the sangria over ice in glasses, ensuring each serving gets a few slices of fruit. Tip: For an extra touch, rim the glasses with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before pouring.

Delightfully aromatic and subtly sweet, this Apple Cider Sangria boasts a harmonious blend of fruity and spicy notes. Serve it in mason jars for a rustic presentation, or garnish with an extra cinnamon stick for a festive touch.

Boozy Candy Cane Cocoa

Perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something sweet and spirited, this Boozy Candy Cane Cocoa combines the rich, deep flavors of high-quality cocoa with the refreshing zest of candy cane and a kick of your favorite spirit. Follow these steps to create a decadent treat that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp high-quality cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz dark rum
• 2 small candy canes, crushed
• Whipped cream, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream, warming gently until steam begins to rise from the surface, about 5 minutes. Avoid boiling to prevent scalding.
2. Whisk in the cocoa powder and granulated sugar until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes. For a richer flavor, sift the cocoa powder before adding.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract, peppermint schnapps, and dark rum. The alcohol should be added off the heat to preserve its potency.
4. Divide the cocoa between two mugs, topping each with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. The candy canes add a festive crunch and cool minty flavor.

Offering a velvety texture with a harmonious blend of chocolate and mint, this Boozy Candy Cane Cocoa is best enjoyed curled up by the fire. For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer or a drizzle of chocolate syrup over the whipped cream.

Eggnog Latte with Rum

Eggnog latte with rum is a festive twist on your morning coffee, blending the rich, creamy flavors of traditional eggnog with the bold kick of rum and espresso. Every sip promises a comforting warmth, perfect for chilly mornings or as a decadent evening treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup high-quality eggnog
• 2 shots freshly brewed espresso
• 1 oz dark rum
• 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 cup whole milk, steamed
• Whipped cream, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the eggnog until it reaches 150°F, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Brew 2 shots of espresso using your preferred method and set aside.
3. Once the eggnog is warmed, remove from heat and stir in the dark rum until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the espresso into a large mug, followed by the rum-infused eggnog.
5. Gently pour the steamed milk over the back of a spoon into the mug to create a layered effect.
6. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg for garnish.

As you indulge in this eggnog latte with rum, notice the velvety texture that coats your palate, complemented by the deep, aromatic flavors of nutmeg and espresso. For an extra festive touch, serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer or a drizzle of caramel syrup.

Spiced Pear Champagne Punch

Our Spiced Pear Champagne Punch is a delightful concoction that marries the sweetness of pears with the effervescence of champagne, all while being elevated by a hint of warm spices. Perfect for any celebration, this punch is as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pear nectar, chilled
• 1 cup vodka, chilled
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 bottle (750 ml) brut champagne, chilled
• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large punch bowl, combine the pear nectar, vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, stirring gently to mix.
2. Add the whole cloves and cinnamon sticks to the bowl, ensuring they are submerged for maximum flavor infusion.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the spices to meld with the liquids.
4. Just before serving, remove the plastic wrap and slowly pour in the chilled brut champagne, stirring lightly to combine.
5. Ladle the punch into chilled glasses, garnishing each with a thin slice of ripe pear on the rim.

Generously spiced yet refreshingly light, this punch offers a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on the palate. Serve it in crystal-clear glasses to showcase its golden hue, or add a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Cherry Bourbon Smash

Yearning for a cocktail that combines the sweetness of summer cherries with the boldness of bourbon? The Cherry Bourbon Smash is your answer, a refreshingly simple yet sophisticated drink that’s perfect for warm evenings.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz small-batch bourbon
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz rich simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
• 4 ripe Bing cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
• Crushed ice
• 1 sprig fresh mint, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the halved Bing cherries with the fresh lemon juice and rich simple syrup until the cherries are thoroughly crushed and their juices are released.
2. Add the small-batch bourbon and aromatic bitters to the shaker, then fill the shaker halfway with crushed ice.
3. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill the mixture thoroughly and dilute it slightly for balance.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh crushed ice, ensuring no cherry pulp enters the glass for a smooth sip.
5. Gently slap the fresh mint sprig between your hands to release its aromatic oils, then place it on top of the drink as a garnish.

Just like that, you’ve crafted a Cherry Bourbon Smash that’s bursting with the vibrant flavors of summer. The drink offers a delightful contrast between the sweet, fruity cherries and the deep, oaky bourbon, with a refreshing minty finish. Serve it with a cherry on the rim for an extra touch of elegance.

Pomegranate Prosecco Punch

Zesty and refreshing, this Pomegranate Prosecco Punch is the perfect blend of sweet and bubbly, ideal for any celebration or a quiet evening in. Let’s dive into the methodical process of creating this exquisite drink.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pomegranate juice, chilled
• 1 bottle Prosecco, chilled
• 1/4 cup elderflower liqueur
• 1/2 cup club soda, chilled
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• Pomegranate seeds and lime slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine the chilled pomegranate juice and fresh lime juice, stirring gently to mix.
2. Add the elderflower liqueur to the pitcher, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Slowly pour in the chilled Prosecco, stirring lightly to combine without losing too much carbonation.
4. Top the mixture with chilled club soda, stirring once more for a uniform blend.
5. Fill serving glasses with ice cubes, then carefully pour the punch over the ice.
6. Garnish each glass with a few pomegranate seeds and a slice of lime for a visually appealing finish.

Meticulously crafted, this punch offers a harmonious balance between the tartness of pomegranate and lime and the sweetness of Prosecco and elderflower liqueur. Serve it in crystal-clear glasses to showcase its vibrant color, or add a sprig of mint for an aromatic twist.

Vanilla Bean Hot Buttered Rum

Nothing warms the soul quite like a meticulously crafted Vanilla Bean Hot Buttered Rum, a classic winter cocktail that combines the richness of butter with the aromatic sweetness of vanilla and the boldness of rum. This guide will walk you through creating this indulgent drink with precision and ease.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
• 2 oz dark rum per serving
• Boiling water, as needed

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups water, softened unsalted butter, and packed dark brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully dissolved and begins to simmer, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the seeds from the split vanilla bean, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and fine sea salt to the saucepan. Whisk vigorously to incorporate all spices evenly, about 1 minute.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The mixture should thicken slightly but remain pourable.
4. For each serving, pour 2 oz of dark rum into a heatproof mug. Add 2 oz of the hot buttered rum mixture to the mug, then top with boiling water to fill the mug, stirring gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg for an extra touch of warmth and aroma.

With its velvety texture and complex flavor profile, this Vanilla Bean Hot Buttered Rum is a decadent treat that’s perfect for sipping by the fire. For a festive twist, rim the glasses with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon before pouring.

Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

Discover the perfect blend of warmth and zest with this Cinnamon Whiskey Sour, a cocktail that marries the spicy notes of cinnamon with the smooth, citrusy undertones of a classic sour. Ideal for those chilly evenings or as a sophisticated addition to your cocktail repertoire, this drink is both inviting and impressively easy to craft.

Ingredients

• 2 oz high-quality cinnamon-infused whiskey
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3/4 oz pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg white, pasteurized
• Ice cubes, for shaking
• Garnish: 1 cinnamon stick and a lemon twist

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the cinnamon-infused whiskey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, pure maple syrup, and pasteurized egg white.
2. Secure the lid on the shaker and dry shake (without ice) vigorously for 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white, creating a silky texture.
3. Add a generous handful of ice cubes to the shaker, then shake again for 20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer for an ultra-smooth finish.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a lemon twist, ensuring the citrus oils are expressed over the drink for an aromatic touch.

Finished with a velvety foam and a balance of sweet, sour, and spice, this Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients elevated. Serve it as a standout aperitif or pair it with a dark chocolate dessert for a decadent contrast.

Chocolate Peppermint Martini

Ready to elevate your cocktail game with a festive twist? This Chocolate Peppermint Martini combines the rich depth of cocoa with the refreshing zing of peppermint, creating a dessert cocktail that’s as delightful to make as it is to sip.

Ingredients

• 2 oz high-quality vodka
• 1 oz crème de cacao (dark)
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 tbsp chocolate syrup, for garnish
• Crushed candy canes, for rimming

Instructions

1. Begin by chilling a martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to ensure your cocktail stays cold longer.
2. While the glass chills, prepare the rim by dipping it in a shallow dish of water, then into crushed candy canes, twisting gently to adhere.
3. In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, crème de cacao, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels frosty, to properly chill and dilute the mixture for optimal flavor.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass, using a fine mesh strainer for a smoother texture.
6. Drizzle the chocolate syrup in a spiral motion over the top of the drink for an elegant garnish.

Now, the velvety smoothness of this martini, with its perfect balance of chocolate and peppermint, makes it an irresistible treat. Serve it as a sophisticated finale to a holiday dinner or as a decadent nightcap any time of year.

Caramel Apple Sangria

Whipping up a batch of Caramel Apple Sangria is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall with a twist. This recipe combines the crispness of apples with the rich sweetness of caramel, creating a drink that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine, chilled
• 2 cups apple cider, chilled
• 1/2 cup caramel vodka
• 1/4 cup butterscotch schnapps
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Ice cubes, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine the dry white wine, apple cider, caramel vodka, and butterscotch schnapps. Stir gently to mix.
2. Add the thinly sliced apple and cinnamon stick to the pitcher. Stir again to incorporate.
3. Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce into the mixture, stirring slowly to create a marbled effect.
4. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: For a stronger cinnamon flavor, let it steep overnight.
5. Before serving, fill glasses with ice cubes to the halfway point. Pour the sangria over the ice, ensuring each glass gets a few apple slices.
6. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of each serving for an extra touch of sweetness. Tip: Warm the caramel sauce slightly for easier drizzling.
7. Garnish with a fresh apple slice or a cinnamon stick on the rim of each glass for presentation. Tip: Use a variety of apple colors for a more visually appealing drink.

Here’s how this sangria delights the senses: the texture is smooth with a slight crispness from the apples, while the flavor balances the tartness of the wine with the deep sweetness of caramel. Serve it in mason jars with striped paper straws for a rustic, autumnal touch at your next gathering.

Eggnog Irish Coffee

Just when you thought holiday drinks couldn’t get any cozier, along comes Eggnog Irish Coffee to prove you wrong. This decadent twist on a classic combines the creamy, spiced warmth of eggnog with the bold kick of Irish whiskey, topped with a cloud of whipped cream for a drink that’s as festive as it is comforting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup high-quality eggnog
• 1.5 oz Irish whiskey
• 1/2 cup freshly brewed strong coffee, hot
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, cold
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the eggnog until it’s hot but not boiling, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
2. While the eggnog heats, brew the coffee to ensure it’s fresh and hot. Tip: Use a French press for a richer flavor.
3. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar together until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes. Tip: Chill your bowl and whisk beforehand for quicker whipping.
4. Divide the hot coffee between two pre-warmed mugs, then add the Irish whiskey to each.
5. Pour the warmed eggnog over the coffee and whiskey mixture, stirring gently to combine.
6. Top each mug with a generous dollop of the whipped cream, then lightly dust with freshly grated nutmeg. Tip: For an extra festive touch, use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer.

Kick back and savor the luxurious blend of creamy eggnog, robust coffee, and smooth whiskey, all harmonized under a blanket of whipped cream. For a playful twist, serve with a side of gingerbread cookies to dip into the frothy top.

Spiced Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Delight your senses with a Spiced Cranberry Whiskey Sour, a cocktail that combines the warmth of whiskey with the tartness of cranberry and a hint of spice. Perfect for those cozy evenings or as a sophisticated addition to your holiday gatherings, this drink is both refreshing and invigorating.

Ingredients

• 2 oz high-quality bourbon whiskey
• 1 oz fresh cranberry juice, strained
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz pure maple syrup
• 1 dash aromatic bitters
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise pod
• Ice cubes
• Fresh cranberries and a lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon whiskey, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
2. Add a dash of aromatic bitters to the shaker for depth of flavor.
3. Drop in the cinnamon stick and star anise pod to infuse the mixture with warm spices.
4. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes, ensuring the ingredients will chill properly without over-diluting.
5. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch.
6. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice shards or spice remnants.
7. Garnish with a skewer of fresh cranberries and a lemon twist for a festive touch.

Balancing the boldness of bourbon with the sharpness of cranberry and lemon, this cocktail offers a complex flavor profile that’s both spicy and sweet. Serve it in a sugar-rimmed glass for an extra touch of elegance, or pair it with dark chocolate to enhance the whiskey’s richness.

Peppermint White Russian

Now, let’s dive into creating a refreshing Peppermint White Russian, a twist on the classic cocktail that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. This guide will walk you through each step with precision, ensuring a delicious result every time.

Ingredients

• 2 oz premium vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 cup crushed ice
• Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a rocks glass with 1 cup of crushed ice to chill the glass while you prepare the cocktail.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of premium vodka, 1 oz of coffee liqueur, and 1/4 tsp of peppermint extract. Tip: Swirl the peppermint extract in the shaker before adding other ingredients to evenly distribute its flavor.
3. Add a handful of crushed ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold. Tip: The shake should be firm but not overly aggressive to prevent diluting the cocktail too much.
4. Discard the ice from the rocks glass and strain the shaken mixture into the glass.
5. Gently pour 1 oz of heavy cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the cocktail. Tip: Pouring slowly ensures a distinct layer between the cream and the cocktail below.
6. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig for an aromatic finish.

Enjoy the Peppermint White Russian’s creamy texture and the harmonious blend of coffee and mint flavors. For an extra festive touch, rim the glass with crushed candy canes before serving.

Gingerbread Hot Toddy

Perfect for chilly evenings, this Gingerbread Hot Toddy combines the warmth of traditional spices with the comforting kick of bourbon, creating a cozy beverage that’s both soothing and invigorating.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 2 tbsp honey, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 whole cloves, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the honey.
2. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture steep for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors. Tip: Covering the saucepan will help retain the aromatic spices’ volatile oils.
3. Strain the mixture into a heatproof mug to remove the whole spices. Tip: Press the spices gently against the strainer to extract all the flavorful liquid.
4. Stir in 1 oz bourbon, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined. Tip: Adjust the bourbon to your preference for a stronger or milder drink.
5. Serve immediately while hot. The toddy should be aromatic with a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and warmth, ideal for sipping slowly to savor each layer of flavor.

Velvety and rich, this Gingerbread Hot Toddy offers a delightful complexity with its blend of spices and bourbon. For an extra festive touch, garnish with a thin slice of lemon or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon before serving.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 Festive Christmas Drink Recipes brings joy and a splash of cheer to your holiday gatherings. Each recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the season. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your top picks on Pinterest. Here’s to a merry and bright holiday season filled with delicious sips and shared moments!